Pro-Bono Strategies for Non-Profits Embarking on a Strategic Plan

I thoroughly enjoy helping non-profit organizations throughout Canada and the USA “find their way” through their strategic planning process. These organizations are very passionate about helping other people through their respective cause and making a positive impact in our world through dedication and hard work. There is no doubt that the work that non-profits do in our respective communities is instrumental and often flies under the radar without much notice, or recognition. I have all the time in the world for non-profits and enjoy the satisfaction I get when I partner with them to find solutions that will help launch them to success.

The biggest challenge most non-profits have is the lack of funding and resources. Most of their funding is provided by generous donors and in some cases government funding. Money is tight and needs to be spent wisely, as they navigate their organization through the many financial obstacles throughout the year to maintain positive cash-flow. Saying that, strategic plans are instrumental in helping non-profits set their mission, vision and objectives that will lead them to future success. The problem is - how can a non-profit afford a professional strategic planning facilitator to help build them a masterful strategic plan? Executive Directors, stakeholders and volunteers are often really great at supporting their cause, but many of these dedicated individuals may not have the experience, or expertise to embark on a professional strategic plan.

So, let’s explore the various cost saving option for your next strategic plan…

1. Do-It-Yourself Strategy - If someone in your non-profit network has the education and expertise to lead your next strategic plan consider yourself lucky. This scenario is very rare, but it could save your organization thousands of dollars. The biggest problem I see with the “do-it-yourself strategy” is many strategic plans get stuck and, in some cases, even get shelved. It’s also nice to have an outside opinion from a professional strategic planning facilitator that will lead to better conversations and keep everyone on track.

2. Source a “Pro-Bono Strategic Planning Facilitator” - This might seem to be right out of the woods, but many business consultants do pro-bono work for non-profits. Just like lawyers, many business consultant have been very successful in their past careers and like to give back by providing free professional services to non-profits in need. Don’t be afraid to ask! They may do the entire strategic planning facilitation for no-charge, or charge you a nominal fee for putting the plan together.

3. Source a “Strategic Planning Facilitator that will offer a significant non- profit discount”. This strategy is probably the most popular of the group. Some strategic planning consultants will offer a large non-profit discount to do your strategic plan. At Hoku Consulting, we for example, offer a minimum discount of $4,000 for qualified non-profits organizations when embarking on such a project. While asking might seem awkward – it’s not – don’t be afraid to ask the question. Every dollar saved, is a dollar that can go towards your cause. Many business consultants like to help.

Now more than ever non-profits need help in “finding their way” by building a dynamic strategic plan that will be the roadmap for their future success. By exploring discounts, pro-bono services and do-it-yourself opportunities you can save thousands of dollars for your non-profit on your next plan. I see many inflated strategic planning quotes for non-profits and find them very unnecessary. Make sure you take your time and find an experienced strategic planning consultant that can do a great job for you and at the same time save you thousands of hard-earned dollars that can go to your cause.